Electricity & Plugs in Hanoi

Practical travel guide for Hanoi, Vietnam

Electricity & Plugs in Hanoi

⚡ Electricity & Power Adapters

Voltage: 220V AC, 50Hz (same as Europe, different from US 110V)

Plug Types: Vietnam primarily uses Type A, C, and G outlets:

  • Type A: Two flat parallel pins (American-style, ungrounded)
  • Type C: Two round pins (European-style)
  • Type G: Three rectangular pins (British-style, less common)

Many modern hotels feature universal outlets accepting multiple plug types. Older buildings may have only Type A or C.

🔌 Do You Need an Adapter?

  • From USA/Canada: Type A plugs fit directly BUT voltage difference (220V vs 110V) requires voltage converter for devices not dual-voltage. Check device specifications most modern electronics (laptops, phone chargers, cameras) are dual-voltage (110-240V) and only need plug adapter.
  • From Europe: Type C plugs work directly; no adapter needed for most outlets
  • From UK/Ireland: Need Type G to C/A adapter
  • From Australia: Need Type I to C/A adapter

💡 What to Bring

Universal Travel Adapter: Recommended for flexibility across Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries. Look for adapters with USB ports for charging multiple devices.

Voltage Converter: Only necessary for devices NOT dual-voltage (hair dryers, straighteners, some older electronics). Most accommodations provide hair dryers.

Power Bank: Essential for day trips and long exploration days. Hanoi has reliable electricity but charging points aren't always convenient.

Surge Protector: Optional but useful for protecting electronics from power fluctuations, which occasionally occur.

🏨 Hotel & Accommodation Considerations

Most hotels (3-star and above) provide:

  • Universal outlets or adapters upon request
  • Hair dryers (no need to bring high-wattage devices)
  • Reliable electricity with minimal outages
  • Some properties have USB charging ports built into rooms

Buying Locally: If you forget adapters, electronics shops in Old Quarter sell them cheap (50,000-150,000 VND). Convenience stores and hotels may loan/rent adapters.

Power Outages: Rare in Hanoi's tourist areas but can occur during storms. Hotels typically have backup generators. Keep devices charged and carry flashlight/phone backup.

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